A spokesperson later added: "At 00:44 'Make Pumps 6' was requested, along with the attendance of the Aerial Ladder Platform.

"The fire had began to spread through the roof. Firefighters are using 6 breathing apparatus and making good progress.

"Crews on scene are liaising with Police and Ambulance, who are also in attendance".

By 2am firefighters wearing breathing equipment were using seven jets and the aerial ladder platform to douse the flames, which had spread across the roof space and was stopped by crews using building construction.